Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., last week visited the Portland Water Bureau’s operations facility on North Interstate Avenue to introduce new legislation that could help the nation access money for water infrastructure improvements.

The Senate today overwhelmingly approved a two-year, $109 billion transportation and infrastructure bill, which will extend several programs supported by Oregon legislators if it’s approved by the House of Representatives.

The Project Rebuild Act would inject $15 billion into the rehabilitation of residential and commercial properties left vacant following foreclosure. The federal government would issue $10 billion in formula grants and $5 billion in competitive grants. There would be a minimum of $20 million for each of the 50 states.

A new federal transportation bill unveiled by House Republicans last week elicited resounding opposition in Oregon, including objections to its emphasis on new highway construction, the elimination of money dedicated for projects to aid bicyclists and pedestrians, and reduction of long-term planning for public transit.

Initial reaction was mixed to President Barack Obama's Thursday night jobs proposal that includes $105 billion for infrastructure and construction spending. Industry professionals say federal spending on construction projects is sorely needed, but they don't believe the jobs will last.